Six children, ages 1 through 14, were left home alone by their parents, authorities told the newspaper. Two of the children, ages 1 and 3, were pronounced dead at the scene. The other children escaped from the burning house before firefighters arrived, authorities said.

Authorities interviewed the parents.

Firefighters said it appears that there was no gas or electricity on, but candles had been placed throughout the house.

"While the fire appears to have been started by candles, at this time, the cause and origin remains under investigation," fire Chief Ruben Brown Sr. said in a news release. "This tragedy could have been prevented; it is a reminder to use extra precaution when utilizing candles and heating homes with space heaters, natural gas and ovens."